MCQUADE STEPS DOWN AS HEAD FIELD HOCKEY COACH, KARL NAMED INTERIM

Nov 04, 2011

RICHMOND, Va. – After five seasons at the helm of the VCU field hockey program, Kelly McQuade stepped down as Head Coach of the Rams to pursue other opportunities. Assistant Coach Shannon Karl will take over as the interim Head Coach.

"This was 100% Kelly's decision as she is going to pursue an exciting business opportunity," Director of Athletics Norwood Teague said. "This was a tough choice for her, and we are disappointed to lose her, however, I am thrilled with her future plans and know she will be a terrific success."

In five seasons, McQuade helped turnaround a once dormant program into contender in the CAA, guiding the Rams to the 13 wins in 2010, the second most in school history, and the program's first CAA Tournament berth since 2004. She was named 2010 CAA Coach of the Year and brought a new level of excitement to VCU Field Hockey.

The Rams were 26-29 over the past three seasons and 36-56 overall under McQuade. VCU toppled 17th-ranked Iowa on the road in 2009 and had thrilling victories against cross-town rival Richmond and James Madison in 2010.

She helped land two of the best field hockey players in school history in Marle and Flore van Dessel, who are both in the top-10 in school history in multiple categories. The van Dessels were only some of the star recruits that McQuade helped bring in to build a bright future for the Black & Gold, who lose only one player from last year's squad.

Karl has been side-by-side with McQuade for the past five seasons and will take over the interim head coaching duties immediately.